Herbed Stuffed Chicken Breasts are a delightful and flavorful way to elevate a simple chicken dinner. With a savory stuffing of fresh spinach, tangy feta, and sun-dried tomatoes, this dish is perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself to something special.
Chicken breasts, being lean and versatile, are the perfect base for this dish, providing a mild flavor that complements the bold stuffing. Spinach adds freshness and a pop of color, while feta cheese brings a creamy, salty contrast. Sun-dried tomatoes contribute a sweet, tangy depth. Garlic introduces a subtle, aromatic kick, and fresh parsley and thyme enhance the herbal notes. Finally, olive oil helps in searing the chicken to golden perfection.
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side of roasted vegetables or a light, refreshing salad. A glass of crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors perfectly.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that when you're ready to bake, the oven is hot and ready to go. Now, let’s tackle the chicken. Take each of the chicken breasts and butterfly them — this just means slicing them horizontally but not all the way through, creating a nice little pocket for all that delicious stuffing.
In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh spinach, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, parsley, and thyme. Give it a good mix until everything is evenly distributed. Stuff each chicken breast with a generous amount of this filling and use toothpicks to secure the opening. Trust me, you don't want your filling bursting out while cooking.
Season the outside of the chicken breasts with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. In an oven-safe skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, gently add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown.
Once seared, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear. Rest the chicken for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making every bite tender and juicy.